Nasal congestion, stuffy nose, runny nose, feeling of a vice… sinusitis is never pleasant. In case of inflammation or pain in the sinuses, natural remedies from grandmother based on plants, essential oils, sea water or self-massage help to free oneself from this inflammation of the respiratory tract. Sinusitis corresponds to the inflammation of the mucous membranes of the sinuses, the cavities located above or on either side of the nose. It is possible to relieve it without medication, when it is due to a virus. There are indeed many effective natural treatments to clear the sinuses, calm the pain, and help improve the symptoms.
How to empty and decongest the sinuses naturally?
The MSD Manual article (source 1) states that steam inhalation, using warm moist towels placed on the affected sinuses, and drinking warm beverages can help reduce swelling of the membranes and promote drainage. Alternatively, nasal irrigation with saline solution (also known as seawater nasal wash) is recommended.
“Using seawater for nasal washing facilitates the evacuation of secretions and quickly unclogs the nasal passages.” Dr. Erkki Bianco, ENT specialist, phoniatrist and phytotherapist, also emphasizes that this helps eliminate the viruses and microbes responsible. Don’t hesitate to put it into practice at the first signs of nasal congestion, especially during a cold or allergy that risks developing into sinusitis.
What are the steps to follow?
It is best to opt for products that combine seawater with moisturizing and antiviral agents, which are two-in-one. Dr. Erkki Bianco, ENT specialist, phoniatrist and phytotherapist, recommends their use rather than simply washing with seawater, because they are more concentrated and avoid superinfection.
For example, Stérimar Stop & Protect sprays for very blocked noses or Humer for very blocked noses recommend 2 to 6 sprays per day in each nostril, according to the instructions. It is important to let the water flow through the nostril and then blow your nose. Use for a period of 5 to 6 days, but not for a long time. For daily use as a preventative measure, opt for an isotonic seawater spray for nasal washing.
How to alleviate the symptoms of sinusitis by inhaling eucalyptus radiata essential oils?
Another option: perform an inhalation. We use eucalyptus radiata essential oil, which has decongestant, antibacterial, immunostimulant and slightly anti-inflammatory properties. It therefore helps to improve breathing and fight infection.
Dr. Bianco adds: “The water vapor, for its part, helps to make the secretions less thick, eliminate microbes and causes a slight dilation of the blood vessels, which promotes the absorption of the active ingredients of the essential oils by the mucous membranes.”
How to inhale?
First, heat a pan of water. As soon as it starts to boil, reduce the heat, add 3 to 5 drops of eucalyptus radiata essential oil and lean your head over the pan to inhale the steam. It is also possible to combine 3 drops of eucalyptus with 2 drops of peppermint essential oil, which is decongestant and beneficial for headaches. “You should stay above the steam for at least 10 minutes, trying to breathe through your nose,” says the expert. Repeat two to three times a day. Be careful, however, never during pregnancy!
The combination of cypress and echinacea is effective in fighting infection.
“Generally, sinusitis is caused by a virus.” It can be the result of a superinfection of a cold or an allergy. “In this context, echinacea and cypress are the two plants with the most powerful antiviral and anti-infectious effect,” emphasizes Dr. Erkki Bianco. They help to strengthen the immune system in order to more effectively counteract the infection and reduce symptoms.
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